AOR Auto Power Steps vs. AMP Research PowerSteps

When I was a child, I remember visiting the General Motors showroom in Sharjah with my father to see the new Cadillac Escalade. Decked out in chrome and with a huge cult following among rappers in America, it was an impressive car, but as I walked up to it and pulled the door handle, I was greeted with one of the Escalade’s most unique features: power-retractable side steps. I was no stranger to retractable steps, having spent many years playing on the hydraulic step on the back of a ‘90s Land Rover Discovery, but these electric ones blew me away.

Nowadays, companies such as AOR and AMP Research have developed their own power-retractable steps which can be installed on just about any vehicle for improved access.

What’s so good about automatically retractable side steps?

They offer the best of both worlds. They give your vehicle a sleek look when tucked away, but are always there for you when you open your door. What’s more, unlike regular running boards, retractable ones actually extend lower to the ground when you open the door, so they make it far easier to get in and out of a big vehicle.

There are a number of different automatic side step products sold on the market today and many knock-offs, but two of the market leaders are AOR Auto Power Steps and AMP Research PowerSteps. RAMY Automotive supplies both and whilst they appear to be very similar at first glance, there is one key difference between the two and this comparison should help you choose which you should install on your car.

Visually, the PowerStep AMP produces has the same durable textured black finish as AOR’s and both include a feature that stops the steps from deploying if there is an obstruction. This is particularly useful when offroading if the car becomes stuck on a crest and helps to prevent the motors from burning out. It also acts as a safety feature to prevent hands or feet from getting jammed in the step.

The AMP Research PowerSteps have been around for many years now and they have been honing their skills in producing side steps for both OEM and aftermarket applications. The same can be said for AOR which has had great success in the US, Australia and Middle East markets in the last few years. So both are trustworthy brands.

The bottom line

Both products are manufactured to high standards with great features, are very reliable and come backed with reliable warranties when bought through RAMY Automotive. So the difference really boils down to price, with AOR’s Power Steps offering the same fantastic features and convenience all for a far more affordable price.

Still not convinced? Check out these videos…